What Does a Control Arm Do?

Control arms are an essential suspension system part. In technical terms, they connect the steering knuckle to the frame and allow the wheels and chassis to move in unison. This is important for stabilising the vehicle while in motion. They reduce unnecessary movements, including forward and rearward movement, and allow you to steer your vehicle while guiding the wheels up and down the road. Whether you drive a Hilux or a Falcon, your vehicle will need control arms to improve safety and functionality.

You’ll typically find both upper and lower control arms equipped with bushings that are linked to the vehicle frame and ball joints. This allows controlled wheel movement in all directions. Control arm ball joints give the steering knuckle the ability to pivot and turn smoothly while the vehicle moves.

Front-wheel drive vehicles typically only have a lower control arm, while most SUVs and trucks have both upper and lower control arms. This means that vehicles such as a Subaru Forester will likely have both upper and lower control arms, while a car like the Honda Accord will only have the lower control arm.

How Long Do Control Arms Last?

Like all components, your control arm can wear out over time. They will typically wear out at around 145,000 to 160,000 kilometres, or possibly sooner if you get into an accident. Various parts of your control arms assembly, such as bushings and ball joints, are likely to wear out before the lower or upper arms themselves.

When Do the Control Arms Need to Be Replaced?

If you spot the following signs while driving your car, it’s time to replace your control arms:

• The steering wheel or the car’s whole frame vibrates while driving.
• Loud banging noises occur when going over speed bumps and potholes.
• Uneven and irregular tyre wear.
• Tyres move or shake while driving.

Is Driving With a Bad Control Arm Dangerous?

Driving with a damaged control arm can cause suspension parts to misalign. This will result in steering and handling issues with your vehicle, making you more prone to accidents. To prevent this, have your lower, upper, front and rear control arms checked regularly; as well as your idler arms, suspension, bushings, and ball joints.

Where Can You Find a Wide Range of Control Arms?

At Machter Auto Parts, we offer control arms suited to a variety of cars including Hilux, Falcons, Foresters and Hondas. You can easily find the upper, lower or front control arms you need — or simply get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Buy Upper and Lower Control Arms & Kits Today

Replace your worn out or broken control arms today, thanks to Machter!